U.S. Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) released the following statement in support of the nomination of General James Mattis for Secretary of Defense. Today, the House voted to allow the appointment of a person as Secretary of Defense within seven years of relief from active duty.
"I'm very pleased by today's vote to clear the path for General Mattis to be nominated as our next Secretary of Defense," said Bilirakis. "As the former head of Central Command for our troops across the Middle East, General Mattis' experience and dedication to our country is unmatched. I'm honored to personally know General Mattis and to have worked with him during his time at MacDill Air Force Base. I can think of no better choice to lead our men and women in uniform, keep Americans safe, and strengthen ties with our allies around the world."